#like alfie wanted this...he wanted to die in his own terms and by tommy himself instead of either by the mafia or by cancer

[borgialucrezia]

peaky blinders — 4x06 'mr. jones' created by steven knight

[ugly-crying-over-bucky-barnes]

Promises Not Kept Part 20

Summary: Tommy Shelby made a promise to Jonah Ward while in the war. A promise he didn't keep. But it comes to haunt him when he tries to drown out his sorrows with a young woman.

Part 20: The Shelbys return to Arrow House and Tommy arranges for a proper wedding but not before he pays someone a visit and brings home a surprise. 

     Charlie was elated to be back at Arrow House. He leaped out of the car and dashed across the lawn. “Mumma!” He beckoned Leah, pointing at the stables. The entire drive back he’d chattered nonstop about seeing the horses again. Listing them all off one by one by name. Reminding Leah which one was which. Although Toffee and Honey were the exact same color, Toffee had a white blaze and Honey had three white socks.

           Leah smiled; I was so nice to see the little boy able to run about. She didn’t have to worry if he was outside. He could roam the large space as long as she had him in eyesight.

           Tommy opened the passenger side door for her and helped her out. “Glad he’ll be able to tire himself out.”

           She hummed in agreement. “I suppose we should walk with him to the stables though. He’ll never stop pestering us.” She began to walk but his fingers slipped from hers.

           “There’s one last thing I need to do.” The fall in her face was unmistakable. Things were supposed to be perfect once everything was settled. But there was still one loose end Tommy needed to take care of.

           “Tom…”

           “I’ll be back later tonight with a bouquet of flowers that’ll be too heavy to carry.” He promised with an endearing look.

           Leah pouted but sighed. “Be quick then.”

           He kissed her cheek and waited until she was off with Charlie to the stables. Then, he got back in the car and headed for Margate.

~~~~~~~~

           Tommy returned just after Leah and Charlie finished dinner. He wasn’t lugging along the purported bouquet. Instead, he was holding his side and leading a massive dog.

           Mary was the first to spot him from the window. The man stumbling up to the front steps. The older woman hurried out to help him.

           “Is Johnny here?” Tommy wheezed and tossed the dog leash to Mary who looked bewildered.

           “He’s in the dining room with your wife and son. Mr. Shelby…”

           He waved her off. “Take Cyril inside, he’ll be needing water. Maybe some food as well.”

           Mary awkwardly held the lead and looked at the slobbering dog. The beast was huge but seemed very docile despite the circumstances they’d just come from.

           Tommy managed to get inside and to the dining room. The room was starting to spin from the pain he’d been in for the long drive back home. He burst through the doors of the dining room where Leah was talking with Johnny; Charlie was sitting on her lap nearly half-asleep.

           Leah jumped up when she saw her husband doubled over in pain. Blood was seeping through the fingers that were pressed to his side. The white shirt he’d left in, had been stained deep red. “Tommy!”

           “Johnny, I need you to take a bullet out for me.”

           “Daddy?” Charlie’s eyes widened and he clung to Leah. Weighing the consequences, she swept the little boy out of the room so he wouldn’t have to see his father bleeding. “Dog!” Charlie’s attention quickly turned when she brought him into the foyer.

           Leah jolted to a halt when she saw Mary standing there with a bull mastiff. “What on Earth is going on?” She exclaimed by the maid seemed just as dumbfounded as she was.

           Charlie squirmed out of Leah’s arms and rushed over to greet the four-legged visitor. “Hi!” Without hesitation, he wrapped his arms around the dog to give him a great big hug.

           Cyril sniffed his blond hair, his tail beginning to wag happily. After he lost his owner, the little boy’s affection was a welcome one.

           “Mary, please watch him,” Leah said before turning back into the dining room.

           Tommy’s blood-stained shirt was on the floor and Johnny had pulled out a blade.

           “Leah, wouldya bring that vodka over?” Johnny asked.

           Shaking, she grabbed the bottle of clear liquid and handed it to him. “Tommy, what happened? Who did this?”

           Her husband had gone pale and was sweating from the pain and blood loss. He simply shook his head.

           “Gonna hafta hold him down, this won’t be pretty,” Johnny informed Leah. “Take a drink, Tom.”

           Tommy took a swig from the bottle. Then Johnny doused the bullet wound and his blade with the rest of the vodka.

           Leah got behind Tommy and wrapped her arms around his upper body. His sweat soaking into the thin sleeves of her silk blouse. She pressed her cheek to his temple. “I’ve got you. It’ll be alright.”

           Tommy tensed up when he felt the tip of Johnny’s blade start to work at the bullet lodged in his skin. He jerked against Leah’s arms and pinched his eyes shut.

           “Sh, sh…” His wife hushed as steadily as she could. She tightened her grip around him, doing her best to hold him back as he fought against her.

           “Easy, Tom, nearly got it out.”

           Tommy let out a loud shout of pain and he struggled in Leah’s arms. “Fuck!”

           “Breathe.” Leah kissed his cheek and tried to keep his attention away from the pain.

           “There ya go.” Johnny dropped the blood-covered bullet onto the pristine tablecloth. “Keep that on it, put pressure on it. I’ll find some proper bandages.” He handed Leah a cloth napkin to press on the wound.

           She held the napkin in place and came around to face Tommy. “It’s over.” She grabbed another napkin to dab the sweat off his face.

           His chest heaved as the pain slowly diminished. He tilted his head back and he blindly reached out for Leah. His hand met her cheek, thumb smoothing over her skin.

           “What happened, Tommy?” She whispered.

           “I killed Alfie.��� He responded with brutal honesty. “He shot me to get me to pull the trigger.”

           “Why would he do that?” The notion sounded outrageous to Leah.

           Tommy opened his eyes and lifted his head. The feeling of water sloshing around in his brain made him dizzy again. “He wanted to die. Knew it was all over, said he had cancer. Wanted to die on his own terms.”

           It sent a shiver down Leah’s spine and she wasn’t sure how to respond. She swallowed and briefly checked the bullet wound. “And the dog?”

           “He was Alfie’s, he wanted me to take him when he died. His name is Cyril. I couldn’t leave him.”

           “Is this over now?”

           His eyes slid closed again. “Yeah, love. We’ll get married and I’ll take a break. Told Polly I would.”

           “Good.”

           Tommy’s hand fell from her cheek and he let out a heavy exhale. “Need to rest.” He needed to rest before he walked into the House of Commons.

~~~~~~~~~

           Cyril was loyal to a strong presence. Before his death, it had been Alfie. But once the bullmastiff adjusted to living at Arrow House, it was Tommy. Cyril loved Charlie, adored trotting after the little boy as he romped about the manicured lawns. He also liked Leah who called him handsome and gave him tummy rubs.

           But at the end of the day, Cyril listened to Tommy. Always came when he called, sat at his feet when he sat down, curled up on the floor on Tommy’s side of the bed every night. Tucked his tail between his legs in shame when Tommy scolded him. Not that the man could be mad at him for more than a few seconds. Cyril’s sad eyes and droopy face were too difficult to stay mad at.

           So on Tommy’s wedding day, Cyril followed the man around, as he got ready. Pushing aside the other Shelbys to get the closest to his owner.

           Arthur wrinkled his nose at the large dog. “Tell me why you kept it?”

           “He’s a good companion for Charlie,” Tommy replied, concentrating on fixing his bowtie.

           Of course, that was an afterthought on the beach. What sealed the deal was when Tommy gathered the strength to sit up. The mastiff was sitting over Alfie’s body as it bled out. The dog’s harmless eyes met his and Tommy’s gut wrenched. He tried standing and was going to turn to leave without the mastiff.

           But he couldn’t get more than a few shuffling steps across the sand he’d stained red. So he stopped and turned around. “C’mon, then.” He’d called.

           But Cyril didn’t move. He sniffed at Alfie again, nosing at his shoulder.

           “C’mon Cyril.”

           He didn’t budge.

           “He’s gone, come along.” Tommy winced in pain as he patted his thigh and whistled, trying everything to get the dog to follow. Eventually, after calling several times and feeling like an idiot, he crossed the gap between him and Alfie and gathered Cyril’s leash. Pulling it from Alfie’s limp hand. “He wanted me to take you. You’ll be alright.”

           “Sorta…goofy ain’t he?” Arthur raised an eyebrow at the comically large dog.

           Indeed, he was goofy. Didn’t seem to acknowledge his own size. Despite it never working, Cyril tried to climb up on Tommy’s desk chair while he was working in his office. There was absolutely no way a dog of his size would fit but it didn’t seem to bother him as he smushed his way into Tommy’s lap before the man shook him away.

           Leah said he was a living vacuum cleaner, always able to find the tiniest of crumbs on the floor. He crawled his way under the tablecloth and rested his chin in Charlie’s lap, his eyes begging for scraps of food. Even after inhaling his own dinner, the dog seemed to always have room for more.

           Tommy especially loved when he found Cyril curled up with Charlie in bed. The two listening to Leah tell them a story. The mastiff waited, along with Leah, until the little boy fell asleep. Then, Cyril carefully jumped off Charlie’s bed and followed Leah to bed.

           He was goofy, but he was a member of the family.

           “Well, how’d you feel then?” Arthur smiled and clapped his brother on the back. “Walking down the aisle, again?”

           Tommy hinted a smile and nodded. “A long time coming.”

           “Well, rumor is the bride looks a picture.” Arthur passed him a flask. Tommy took a quick drink. “Now let’s get you to the church.”

~~~~~~~~

           Since Charlie was older than he was when Grace and Tommy got married, he was able to be at the wedding. In fact, he was given the task of being the ring bearer. All dressed up in a little suit and practicing walking down the aisle with his aunts and uncles before the big day arrived. Leah encouraged it because Charlie was a big part of the arrangement. She was marrying Tommy but they were formally creating a family. And although Charlie wasn’t her blood, she had left behind the worries she once had. Never would she disparage Grace’s memory. But Charlie was her son now and would be until her dying days. Nothing would ever change that.

           While they waited for the bride, Charlie clung to Tommy’s leg. He looked up at his father with innocent eyes.

           “Mumma’s coming now?” He asked for the third time.

           Tommy smiled and ruffled his hair. “She’s on her way.” There wasn’t any doubt that Leah would show up. Perhaps that was his ego being overconfident, or maybe it was simply the trust they’d built up.

           “She’s gonna look pretty. That’s what Auntie Ada said.” Charlie pressed his cheek to Tommy’s leg.

           “She always looks pretty.” But Tommy couldn’t help the stunned look on his face when the doors to the church opened and Leah walked out. Tradition be damned, Polly was escorting the bride down the aisle.

           Leah was draped in a delicate blush dress, a thin veil of the same color concealing her face. She held a bouquet of roses and baby’s breath. She linked arms with Polly, tilting her head slightly to say something. Tommy’s aunt simply smiled in response.

           Charlie shyly peered up at Leah as Tommy took her hand from Polly.

           Tommy had to steady his heart as he gingerly lifted the veil from her face. Her blonde hair was curled to perfection and she wore a glow that couldn’t possibly be created by makeup. The two smiled at each other, almost in disbelief that they’d made it to the altar.

           “Mumma,” Charlie whispered. “You look pretty.”

           Leah crouched down to kiss his cheek. “Thank you, poppet.”

           Tommy couldn’t keep his eyes off his bride even as Jeremiah began the ceremony.

~~~~~~~~~

           The reception was in full swing and Arrow House was lit up like a Christmas Tree. The inside and outside were flooded with people all dancing, drinking, and laughing. Two bands kept the party going and most of the Blinders were already drunk enough to start up some sport. Johnny had already received permission to start up bets on a race.

           Unlike his last wedding, there wasn’t much for Tommy to worry about. No Russians trying to ruin the evening. There was no one that needed to die. Everything was running smoothly.

           It was around ten when Charlie began to sulk and grimace crankily at everyone. Crossing his arms over his chest and sticking his lower lip out. So Leah scooped him up to bring him upstairs to bed.

           “Wanna stay up!” He whined.

           “It’s well past your bedtime, poppet.” She murmured softly. “Besides, it’s a boring grown-up party.”

           Cyril padded behind them, his ears perking up at every sound that traveled up the stairs from the party.

           Charlie scrunched up his face. “No…”

           “Yes, it’s no fun. I wish I could go to bed.” She teased and kissed his cheek. “I’m awfully tired.”

           That prompted a yawn from the child who hadn’t realized how tired he was. “Okay.” He ceded, too exhausted to argue.

           Leah got him dressed in pajamas and tucked into bed. She didn’t need to read him any stories or sing a lullaby because he was out cold by the time his head hit the pillow. She instructed Cyril to stay there and shut the door behind her to vainly try to block out any noise of the reveling downstairs. Hopefully, Charlie would be tired enough to sleep through the rowdiness.

           As she stepped into the hall, she found Tommy was smoking by one of the large windows. “Ada said you brought him up to bed.”

           “He was exhausted, took only a second to fall asleep.” She smiled and gathered the skirt of her dress in her hand to walk over to him. “Why’re you up here?”      

           “Needed some time away with my wife.”

           “Is that so?” Mischief glinted in his blue eyes and he jerked his head towards the bedroom door. Not saying anything else but speaking with his eyes. “We’ve guests downstairs.” She reminded him but was already gravitating towards him.

           “I have a reputation for disappearing during parties. They’ll understand.”

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Tag list: @shelbyblinded

Masterpost

PB Masterlist

[summer-jay]

so it’s a modern!au right, and it’s bonkers hot outside so Tommy and Alfie just send it all to hell and get out of the city for a day, and they’re walking through the parking lot at some small shop, trying hard not to die, just being generally done with life

and then they see it. a dog. inside a locked car. with all windows up.

and they’ve been on the edge for some time now okay but this shit, this shit is just fucking it

so they break the window carefully and get the dog out and Alfie gives it water and talks softly to it while Tommy proceeds to positively smash the car

and then the owner runs out, screaming and shit, and Alfie’s like “do you want to fucking go missing mate” but the dude just keeps being stupid and OH BOY did Alfie silently wish for the fucker to keep running his mouth yes he did. so since Tommy is busy with the car, Alfie takes it upon himself to make the world a better place and explain in no uncertain terms why you never leave your fucking dog in your fucking car in 30C heat

meanwhile, Tommy approaches the mortified cashier at the door trying to call the police and gives him his business card cause he pretty much owns the local police anyway and “no need for them to go through all that hassle with cameras”

they, of course, steal the dog.

[peaky-blinders-lit]

Who Saved Who? // Thomas Shelby x Reader

Prompt: “Don’t argue. Just go.”

Read part 2 here.

It was eight o’clock on a Saturday night and you couldn’t wait to get drunk.

Six hours ago your father, the owner of several Birmingham pubs and head of an illegal gambling organization, had informed you that you’d be his proxy in dealings with the Shelbys while he was on a business trip to America. For a full month, you would be expected to run the family business and ensure that everything ran smoothly—a complicated task in itself without adding the dangerous Shelby brothers into the mix. They were hired to protect your father’s employees on the racetracks, and while their men performed efficiently and effectively, you couldn’t help but regret your father’s decision to use them.

You’d fallen under Tommy Shelby’s spell years ago, but your budding relationship collapsed before it even really began. You and Tommy were similar in that you hated being under others’ thumbs and wanted to be in control, which resulted in butting heads many times and soon a less-than-amiable parting. When the war broke out, you had already moved on with your life and were consumed with taking charge of your father’s business. Now, you rarely saw any of the Shelbys, which you didn’t mind. Still, you often wondered what your life would have been like if you had stayed on better terms with Tommy.

Better not think of what could have been, you chided yourself as you bundled up and stepped out into the chilly evening, finally locking up the company’s headquarters for the night. Your heeled boots clacked on the pavement as you made your way up the street, letting your mind wander and letting your feet guide you to the nearest bar. You were totally consumed with tomorrow’s itinerary when you pushed open the door to the Garrison, only realizing where you ended up when you made your way inside. Thanks to divine providence, you supposed, you had found your way to the Shelby brothers’ den of debauchery. Maybe they won’t be here tonight, you hoped. Weaving your way through the men gathered inside, you found a seat at the bar and snapped your fingers at the bartender.

“Brandy, please,” you said wearily. He set a glass of the golden liquid in front of you and you knocked it back in one, hissing out a sigh through your teeth as it burned a trail down your throat. Hopefully, the alcohol would help you forget your stress and nerves just for one night before you took over business with the Shelbys.

“Still drinking brandy, eh, Y/N?” you heard a familiar voice comment. It took a second for you to compose yourself and assume a blankly polite expression before turning to face the speaker next to you. Who, of course, was Tommy. It was ridiculous to imagine he wouldn’t frequent his own bar.

“Yes, I am.” you answered shortly. “And you’re still spending your evenings in bars, I see.” Tommy studied you for a moment before turning his back to the bar and pulling out a cigarette.

“This is my family’s bar now, where else would I go?” he says, the corner of his mouth pulling up slightly. He stared out at the others in the bar, seemingly bored. You shrugged, inspecting his lined face while his gaze is occupied. “Maybe to bed? Jesus, Tommy, it looks like you haven’t slept in years.”

Tommy’s eyes met yours. “I’ve been busy.” You shook your head and motioned for another glass of brandy. His reluctance to share his feelings and experiences was one of the reasons your relationship fell apart.

“Why are you here tonight, Y/N?” he asked suddenly. “You usually avoid all our pubs like the plague.”

You swirled the brandy around in your glass. “Are you keeping tabs on me?” You’re almost flattered.

“Only because you’re the daughter of a significant business partner,” Tommy answered casually.

“Well, I’m here tonight for pleasure,” you said haughtily. “Our business dealings together start tomorrow. We have a nine o’clock meeting, remember?”

Tommy huffed out a laugh. “I remember. But pleasure?” His eyes roamed your face as he took a drag of the cigarette between his calloused fingers, letting the smoke curl out of his mouth lazily.

Your cheeks reddened slightly at what he insinuated. “This bar stocks the best brandy in Birmingham, that’s all, Thomas.”

His lips curved into a proper smile, causing your breath to hitch slightly. You’d forgotten just how handsome this infuriating man is. “You only call me Thomas when you’re embarrassed,” he teased, leaning forward until your face is unbearably close to his. “So what did you really come here for?”

Just then, a gunshot rang out and the busy room went silent. “Everyone out!” a male voice roared, causing a stampede of action.

Tommy grabbed your shoulders, his face grave. “Hurry to the back room. Don’t argue, just go.” You were too startled to object and darted to the small room, closing the door and hiding yourself amongst boxes of alcohol and cigarettes before grabbing the pistol tucked in your purse; you mentally thanked God that your father insisted you carry it everywhere once he left for America. When the groan of chair legs dragging on the hard floor echoed out you pressed your ear against the door, hoping that Tommy had the situation under control.

“There’s been a nasty rumor making its way around London, Mr. Shelby,” the unknown man said, his voice muffled through the door. “Apparently you’re planning to betray us once we deliver the paperwork for the Charterhouse Street property.”

You waited for Tommy’s response but he stayed silent, making your heart beat a little faster. What’s he waiting for? you wondered worriedly.

“I’m sorry you believe that,” Tommy said calmly. “We can offer y—”

HIs response was cut short by the cocking of a gun. “I don’t care about your offers. I’ve been ordered to kill you.”

Even though you’ve had a rocky history with Tommy, you couldn’t just let him die. With this thought in mind, you gripped your pistol securely and made your way out of the room, pointing your firearm at the man holding a gun to Tommy’s head as the latter sits, tied to the chair. Without a second thought you pulled the trigger and then shot the other man hovering over Tommy before he had a chance to react.

The bodies crumpled to the ground with a thud. Tommy stared at you, his lips slightly parted, as you walked across the room to him. You knelt beside the chair and busied yourself with undoing the knots in the rope wound around him. The silence following the gunshots was almost deafening.

“Thank you,” Tommy said, his voice slightly raspy.

“Who were they?” you asked, tugging at a stubborn knot.

He sighed. “Some men from London. We’re trying to buy property from their employer, who happens to be an enemy of Alfie Solomons. After we got ahold of the paperwork we were, actually, going to turn them over to Alfie.” You finally managed to free him from the rope and he stood up, gently pulling you up with him.

Tommy’s hold on your arms tightened as he stared down at you. You shifted slightly, unused to being this close to him. “That wasn’t the first time I’ve killed before, Tommy,” you whispered, eyes trained on the floor.

“Doesn’t mean it gets any easier,” he replied quietly, placing a finger under your chin and lifting it upwards, forcing you to meet his gaze.

“It was you or them,” you said, almost like you’re trying to justify it to yourself. “You or them.”

Tommy pulled you in for a hug. You buried your face in his neck and tried to calm your ragged breathing. “I know, Y/N. I know.”

You let go of him sooner than you’d like and made your way out, still trying to cling to the belief that you wanted to stay away from him. But when you placed your hand on the door, you realized you didn’t want to be alone.

“Tommy, will you stay with me tonight?” you said timidly.

He looked up quickly and his gaze softened. “Of course.”

Together you walked back to your house, a small flat less than a mile from the pub. You led him to your sitting room and lit a fire in the fireplace for some heat while he removed his hat and coat, then handed him a glass of whiskey before he had to ask.

Tommy sat on the sofa with a deep sigh and extended his free hand to you. When you took it with a small smile he gently tugged it towards himself so you were forced to sit next to him. After a second of awkwardness you let your guard down and snuggled into his side, his arm curled protectively around you.

“I miss you,” you blurted out.

He took a sip of whiskey. “I miss you, too.” It was clearly a hard confession for him. For a while you both sat in silence, enjoying each other’s company and staring at the crackling fire. The third time you yawned Tommy carefully extracted himself from beside you and helped you up.

“You need to rest,” he advised gently, leading you to your bedroom.

You shook your head. “Hypocrite.” You stripped out of your dress and undergarments and slipped on a thin nightgown, not caring what Tommy saw, before climbing into bed.

“Are you just going to stand there all night?” you murmured sleepily. Tommy smiled and undressed down to his underwear, then climbed into bed beside you. You rested your head on his chest and his hand rubbed your arm comfortingly. He’d managed to break down your walls again, giving you a sense of peace and contentment even after the violence you’d committed.

“Go to sleep, Y/N,” Tommy said quietly, kissing the top of your head.

“Good night, Tommy,” you said as your eyelids fluttered shut.

“Good night.”

[ugly-crying-over-bucky-barnes]

Dawn in your Eyes Part 18

Summary: Alfie has little to no idea why Caroline ever gave him the time of day. The blind woman seemed far too sensible to even speak to him. But soon he finds himself falling helplessly in love.

Part 18: Alfie hates being vulnerable especially in front of Tommy Shelby

            On Alfie’s first day back to work, he tried to keep his stress level down to a minimum. He didn’t need more of a headache than he already had.

            Some men who were more comfortable with their boss offered their well wishes. Saying how glad they were to hear he had recovered from the gunshot. Others didn’t say anything about the injury and made sure not to stare.

            Disgruntled and feeling very uncomfortable in his own domain, Alfie was in a foul mood. Or rather nothing felt right.

            Because when Ollie came knocking saying that Tommy was there, Alfie didn’t get more upset. In fact, he got a bit relieved. Perhaps because the man had been there when Alfie was shot. He’d protected his wife, helped cover her hair when she asked, delivered her to Julia, and waited at the hospital.

            “Morning, Alfie.” Tommy greeted him as if it were any ordinary day. He figured that would be the best approach.

            “Yeah, s’pose it is. When you’ve got people doing double-takes as you walk down the street.” Alfie attempted to sound lighthearted but he sounded a bit wounded.

            Tommy took a seat. “Still in pain?” He didn’t care what people did in the streets. In fact, he’d bet that people always stared at men like them.

            “Well, it ain’t a walk in the park but I’m still breathing, right?” Alfie reached for a pen to fiddle with.

            Tommy couldn’t help but notice the man completely misjudged where the pen was, falling short before trying to reach further to grab it. He didn’t call attention to it though. “I can imagine the migraines are difficult. Must’ve been a lot of trauma.”

            “Everything’s manageable, Tommy.”

            “Right.” The Brummie nodded, realizing Alfie wasn’t in the market for any sympathy. He didn’t seem like the type to accept it.

            “Thing is, mate, I’ve got two wops chained up in me basement right now.” He pointed to the ground. “They’re bleeding out, should be dead soon ‘nough thought I’d give them time to think ‘bout what they’ve done. Ain’t nothing I haven’t dealt with before. Once they’re dead, they’re dumped on Farringdon.”

            “So, why’ve you called me ‘round?”

            “S’all, the same thing, innit? Same message that we all understand. Yet, for some reason me wife was still kidnapped despite what I’ve demonstrated, I could do to them.”

            Tommy raised an eyebrow. After all the time he’d known Alfie, he could still hardly follow the man’s train of thought. He always had the potential to go to a million different directions with his little speeches. “Get to the fucking point, Alfie.”

            “The point is, I need to send a stronger message. Unthinkable happened, yeah, and those fucking lowlifes need to understand. Unthinkable happens, they receive an unthinkable punishment.”

            “And what would you have me do? I helped you find her, made sure you didn’t die, and now you’re asking more from me?” Tommy wasn’t going to let him get familiar with the feeling of comradery. They weren’t allies. He would pick and choose when he wanted to help Alfie and any agreements were signed in ink. Nothing verbal. He couldn’t trust the man if his signature wasn’t on paper.

            “Ain’t a favor to me, mate, it’s an opportunity for you.”

            Tommy scoffed and rolled his eyes, completely unconvinced. Alfie wouldn’t give him an opportunity without something in return. “A favor? From you? Really?”

            Alfie laced his fingers together and rested them on his desk. “I help you run Sabini’s men off the tracks. Enough of them that he takes notice and it hits him hard in the wallet. And when he does notice, you tell him that these are the consequences. Italians end up dead and he don’t make money from the races.”

            It was tempting although Tommy wasn’t sure it was a good strategy. The best thing he could do was take the thanks for finding Caroline and go about their separate businesses. The more intertwined they got with favors and agreements; the messier things became. Still, Tommy considered the benefits. Sabini couldn’t handle both the Jews and the Blinders. They were too powerful together. So much so, in fact, that it wouldn’t be much of a fair fight.

            “For how long?” Tommy asked.

            “For as long as you want, mate.” He shrugged. “You want more control over the tracks, I want to send a message. Seems to work out for the both of us, don’t it?”

            “I’ll think about it.”

            Alfie raised an eyebrow but nodded. “Better than a no.” He ceded and reached for his cane leaning on the desk so he could stand up. But he didn’t even end up close to where the cane was and ended up with a handful of papers instead. “Fuck.” He muttered under his breath and tried again but knocked the cane over the second time around.

            Tommy bent forward to pick it up and hand it to him. He noticed Alfie wouldn’t meet his eye and acted like it was just a mistake. “When I was recovering from surgery, not so long ago,” He cleared his throat, “I couldn’t even move. I’d been hit in the head so fucking hard, so many times that they really did a number on me. Was in that fucking bed for weeks. Couldn’t speak, couldn’t sit up. They had to teach me to walk again.”

            “Why’re you telling me this, Tom?” Alfie asked, a bit suspicious of the man’s point.

            “We were in the war; we were taught not to show weakness. If we were shot, we carried on. You and I, we don’t appreciate being disabled by anything. But that’s just the way things are, sometimes.” Tommy spoke in a gentler tone than he usually took with Alfie.

            He sighed and shook his head. “Yeah, whatever.” It was difficult to admit that Tommy was right. In fact, it was hard to admit that there were things beyond his control. Just the way things were? Utter nonsense in his opinion.

            Tommy withdrew from the conversation. He wasn’t in the mood to get Alfie all worked up over nothing. “Well, I hope Caroline’s well.” He stood up and gathered his cap. “I’ll think about your proposition.” He added.

            “Good, good.” It was almost strange to be concluding their meeting so civilly. No death threats were slung about, no haggling of percentages, just two men conducting civil business. Maybe the bullet had done more damage than Alfie thought.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

            July was ending and Caroline was very optimistic. Alfie was healing very nicely. Although his sight hadn’t recovered in his left eye, his headaches were getting gradually better. The skin around his eye was lined with scars, divots in his cheek that she could feel when she touched his face. But it was a big improvement from when he was in the hospital so doped up on drugs, he couldn’t stay awake.

            She was in the late stages of her pregnancy. Julia predicted the baby would be born in the last weeks of August. And according to Hanna, Camden’s most reputable midwife, everything would go smoothly.

            That’s all Caroline could hope for. A manageable labor and a healthy baby. She wanted to just focus on the things that were the most important. Alfie’s recovery and their child. But familiar fears were starting to creep in, especially once the pregnancy really started to show.

            Julia was appalled by the subtle rumors she heard about her niece. They were told to her by concerned neighbors. Outrageous lies that made her blood boil like how the baby would be born blind too, the baby wouldn’t make it to term or would be stillborn, Caroline had intentionally gotten pregnant to keep Alfie in the marriage, or that she wasn’t even pregnant at all.

            It was maddening to Julia, but she could only angrily dispel the rumors and try to keep her niece none the wiser about what was said. Caroline didn’t need any added stress. But there was nothing she could do if she wasn’t around to shield Caroline.

                       One morning, with the sweltering hot summer sun on her face, Caroline headed down to the shop. Pilot led her through the streets but paused whenever someone stopped to talk to them.

            “Goodness, Caroline, look at you glow!” Golde, one of their elderly neighbors crowed happily.

            “Are you sure it isn’t sweat? This heat is unbearable.” Caroline smiled sheepishly and cradled her stomach.

            “Nonsense, you look beautiful. Mazel tov and give my love to Alfie.”

            “Yoo-hoo, Caroline!” Another neighbor, Lea, called her over. “Just in time, I’ve finished knitting that blanket I promised I’d make you.”

            “Oh goodness, so quickly?” Caroline let Pilot guide her safely across the street. “You must’ve been knitting up a storm all month.”

            Lea giggled. “It’s just inside, I’ll run and grab it.” She hurried into her flat to retrieve the gift.

            Caroline waited by the stoop, her back turned to the street with Pilot at her feet. Only a couple of moments later, she picked up on a conversation passing by her.

            “It’s like having a fish on the line, Julia isn’t going to allow Alfie to leave Caroline. What an embarrassment that would be to the family.”

            Upon hearing her name, she instantly tensed up. And it didn’t help that it sounded like the same two women who had been talking about her after Seder.

            “Do you even think she’s pregnant?” The other asked.

            “I should hope not. What sort of child could she produce?”

            Caroline was fed up. She would not run away crying this time. She would not retreat to a safe place to pick up the pieces of her dignity. No. Because with each day she carried her child, she became less and less doubtful of herself as a mother. If she was not meant to be a mother, if God hadn’t chosen her to carry this child, then the pregnancy never would’ve happened. She trusted in Julia’s assurances that this was in God’s plan for her and Alfie.

            So, she turned around. “If you have something to say about me and my husband you should say it to my face.” She snapped.

            There was an obvious sound of footsteps stuttering as the two women screeched to a halt. “Mrs. Solomons…” One of them uttered, a hint of dread in her voice.

            “Otherwise, keep my husband’s name out of your conversations. He is of no interest to you.” Her grip on Pilot’s lead tightened in anger.

            “We didn’t-”

            “Soon enough you can talk about how perfect my child is. Apparently, you enjoy being jealous.” And with that, Caroline turned away from the women who looked absolutely gobsmacked.

            “Here it is then.” Lea came out of the flat. She glanced toward the two women who were scurrying away, trying to escape the situation. “Everything alright?” She noticed the frown on Caroline’s face.

            “Of course, it’s just so hot out.” She replied, softening her features.

            “It really is.” Lea folded up the blanket and guided Caroline’s hand to feel it. “Softest yarn I could find. A beautiful cream color and it should be easy to wash.”

            “Oh, Lea, thank you so much. This is such a lovely gift.” Caroline ran her fingertips over the soft fibers of the knitted blanket.

            “It’s the least I could do.” Her neighbor tucked the blanket into Caroline’s basket. “Mazel tov.”

            She beamed and almost wanted to congratulate herself for standing up to the women who had torn her down before. “I’ll see you soon, Lea. Thank you, again.”

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~

            It was long past dinner by the time Alfie returned home. He trudged into the kitchen where their maid was cleaning out the icebox.

            “Sorry to keep ya waiting, Candace.” He waved an apologetic hand her way as he slumped down into a chair to unlace his boots. Cyril and Apollo crowded around him, scratching at his legs to greet him.

            “No worries, Mr. Solomons.” Candace was a young woman who had recently moved from Ireland to London. She applied to the position that Alfie had placed in the paper. Someone needed to tend after the house, to help out Caroline when she needed, and someone who could look after the baby should they need assistance. It was an extreme vetting process, but Alfie didn’t care. He wanted to make sure the person in his household for hours on end, alone with his wife and child had a squeaky-clean record.

            Candace passed the test and was hired months earlier to get settled before the baby arrived. She proved to be a nice girl with all the best intentions. She spoke respectfully and did her job well. It may have been that Alfie was paying her top dollar for the position, but Caroline seemed to think she was a genuine person. The two got along well and often times, when Alfie came home, he could find them chattering away with each other.

            “Carrie’s upstairs?” He asked, nudging the dogs to the side so he could remove his boots.

            “In the nursery.” She confirmed.

            “Good, have a good night then.” He dismissed her as he was about to leave the kitchen.

            “You too, sir.” Candance shut the icebox and reached around her waist to remove her apron. But she paused. “Erm, Mr. Solomons?”

            “Hm?” He stopped in the doorway.

            “Well, I didn’t want to alarm Mrs. Solomons, but there have been men coming down the street. I haven’t quite gotten a good look at any of them, but I believe it’s the same group of people. They’ve been leaving flyers on the doorstep. Not just here but all up and down the street. I haven’t kept any because…well, they were just so awful and I thought they might stop soon.”

            Alfie’s jaw tensed. “What do they say?” He asked.

            Candace averted her eyes and chewed on her lip. “They’re lies about Jews. Just awful, awful things. And I didn’t want to worry you or Mrs. Solomons because of the baby coming soon. But I’m afraid what will happen if they keep coming by. I want to make sure Mrs. Solomons is kept safe.” Her voice went up an octave in panic.

            Alfie sighed. “Alright, alright, s’okay. You ‘n Caroline aren’t in any danger if you stay in the house. But if they come ‘round again, you call me, yeah? Call the bakery and let me know. If they leave something else, you keep it so I can look over it.”

            She nodded. “Okay, I will.”

            He noticed how shaken she was. “Right, can I call Ishmael to drive you home?” He offered.

            “Oh, no. I’ll be alright.” She went to gather her coat and purse.

            “Stay here.” Alfie knew she was just trying to be polite. “Let me ring him and he’ll be ‘round soon.”

            Candace nodded meekly. It was a welcome gesture of security, so she went to wait by the stairs.

~~~~~~~~~

            Alfie went up to ring his driver before going to find Caroline. She was in the nursery with Pilot, idly straightening and moving things around. A clear indication that she just couldn’t wait for their son or daughter.

            In fact, she often spent time in the room, just to sit or touch the items they’d bought in preparation. Soft swaddles, a cot, and plush toys. There were a few storybooks lined up on a shelf. Some were in braille so Caroline could read to the baby too.

            As Alfie walked in, he saw her neatly folding a cream knitted blanket over the side of the cot. “That’s new, innit?” He sometimes lost track of all the things they’d bought.

            “Lea gave it to me today. She said she just finished making it.” Caroline smiled and smoothed her hands over the blanket.

            “Well, that is very nice, very nice.” He walked over to see the gift. “I’ll have to send her my thanks.”

            Caroline touched his shoulder. “I’m very excited.” She murmured.

            “I am too. Can't wait." That was what they needed to look forward to. Not gossiping neighbors. Not fascists looking to start trouble. 

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[ugly-crying-over-bucky-barnes]

Burned Part 24

Summary:  Alfie Solomons is in need of a secretary. Tommy Shelby mentions a young woman in need of employment. From there the two step into a dangerous dance together.

Part 23: 

           “Fucking hell, Tommy, you really need glasses don’t you?”

           It took Alfie a full breath to realize he hadn’t been shot and was still very alive. He heard the bullet zip right by his ear but never made contact with flesh. “You’ve gone blind or have you got the shakes now?”

           Tommy didn’t say a word, instead, he simply waited.

           “Alfie?” Louise came running out of the cottage only moments later. She was holding her gun, ready to shot Tommy Shelby if need be. But she was relieved to see both men were still standing and unharmed.

           “It’s alright, Louise, I was just showing Alfie this new pistol,” Tommy called back to her standing on the dunes.

           Alfie’s wife looked irritated. “Well, I don’t appreciate you both firing off without warning. The baby is trying to sleep.”

           The Jewish gangster became choked up and couldn’t speak. He simply stared at her standing there with a gun in hand.

           “Sorry, we’ll keep it down.” Tommy nodded and fiddled with his gun, letting the last bullet left in the barrel to fall out into his palm.

           “Breakfast will be done soon, Alfie.” Louise continued. “Come inside when you’re done.” And with that, she returned inside.

           Tommy walked over and placed the bullet in Alfie’s hand. “See that? She would’ve come out and shot me for what I did to you.” He explained in a low voice. “Then, what’d you think would happen, aye? I’ve got a family of fucking animals, ‘ccording to you.”

           Alfie was speechless, something he seldom was. His fingers curled around the bullet in a delayed response.

           “Arthur isn’t dead.” Tommy continued speaking as he returned the gun into the inside of his coat. “Luca Changretta is. Whatever you’ve done, you did it to protect her and your son. I can understand that. I would’ve done the same thing. You’re retired now so we can put this matter to rest. I can mentor Ollie, if you’d like, let him work your bakery back up. That’ll be the end of fighting between the Blinders and the Jews. But if I hear you’ve been involved with the business again, I won’t miss.” Tommy said firmly. “Trust me when I say Louise would much rather have you around for the time you’ve got left. Because you don’t know how long you have. Could be years. Years that you would be better off spending with your wife and boy.”

           Alfie slowly pocketed the bullet as if he were accepting the terms of Tommy’s new lease on his life. “You’ve got more planned, Tommy?” He asked.

           The Blinder reached for a cigarette. “I do.” He answered curtly. “Business you won’t want to be involved with, too legitimate for your liking.”

           Alfie nodded and sighed. “Done with doing all the dirty work, aye? Think you’ll get tired of it, mate.”

           “Well, until then, I’ll be alright. As will you.” Tommy held out his hand to shake.

           The other man obliged.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

           The walk up the dunes was much longer than it appeared. Alfie kept his palm wrapped around the bullet in his pocket. His heart was still beating unbearably fast. He’d nearly gone through with taking his own life via Tommy Shelby. According to plan, he shouldn’t have been walking back up to the cottage.

           But Tommy was dead on. Had Louise seen Alfie bleeding out in the sand, she would’ve shot him without hesitating. Whether it be because of a broken heart, revenge, or in fear she and Teddy were the next victims. Then what next? The Blinders would be after her for killing their kin. Alfie felt stupid for not even considering retaliation from his wife. Without question, she would seriously injure or kill anyone who attacked her family.

           Things were just as he’d left them. The moment he walked out the door assuming he wouldn’t walk back. Louise was finishing up in the kitchen and Teddy was still fast asleep in his bassinette.

           “Honestly, sometimes I wonder about that man.” Louise huffed. “Shooting a gun when he damn well knows Teddy is up here. Scared me half to death, I thought he’d killed you!”

           Alfie felt like he couldn’t breathe. He was overwhelmed with the feeling of happiness. Being given a new lease on life with the woman he loved. “It were my fault.” He excused weakly.

           “Hmpf, men and their guns.” She shook her head and placed two plates down at the small breakfast nook.

           He smiled and hugged her. “You’re lovely.” He murmured softly and kissed her cheek. There didn’t seem like any other route he wanted to take. He thought disposing of himself would be easiest for everyone involved. But perhaps Tommy was right. Louise kept him stronger and kept him fighting. With her, by his side, he had a chance of living out at least a few more years. Maybe even a bit longer without the stress of the bakery on his shoulders. Still, it didn’t matter if he dropped dead the next day. As long as he knew he was going peacefully with Louise. For so long he assumed he would die by the sword, die by the lifestyle he so viciously pursued. But maybe cancer was just a bigger sword. A bigger battle he had to face. And he had faced so many battles with Louise by his side. What was one more?

~~~~~~~~~~~~

           Retirement was a lot easier when you had a growing baby to raise. Alfie was sure that if they didn’t have Teddy he’d be driving himself and Louise crazy with boredom. He had grown into the role as a family man and by Hanukah, he felt perfectly comfortable as a father.

           They hadn’t been back at Camden together since Louise gave birth to Teddy. It was nice to be in the countryside or on the shores in Margate but it was also lovely to be back with family and friends. Back to the place where Louise and Alfie fell in love.

           Ollie’s house sparked with noise when they saw Alfie enter with a little bundle in his arms. He smiled and nodded. “Alright, alright, start the bidding at three pounds, who wants him first?”

           “Oh, Alfie.” Louise sighed and rolled her eyes at him auctioning over their baby.

           Tante Raisa managed to get a hold of Teddy first. She cradled the baby close and whispered soft Yiddish blessings to him. “Alfie, such a handsome boy!” She exclaimed while Alfie took his wife’s coat. “You both must be so proud.”

           “What’s the name then?” Ollie walked over with two of his kids hanging off his legs. “Alfie Jr?”

           His former boss laughed and shook his head. “Louise wouldn’t let that one happen. Theodore Solomons. We call him Teddy.” He answered and looked fondly at his son in Raisa’s arms.

           “But we gave him a Hebrew name as well,” Louise added with a smile. “Tovi.”

           “My good,” Alfie explained the meaning of the name.

           Raisa smiled warmly and touched Teddy’s cheek. “I’m sure he’ll bring you a lot of good.” She turned. “Eva, come see the baby!” She exclaimed.

           “And he’s not our problem for the rest of the evening.” Alfie teased and wrapped an arm around his wife’s waist. She smiled and allowed herself to be tempted away by Vera and Evelyn. Alfie watched as she happily fawned over Evelyn’s engagement ring. Ishmael had finally proposed once he got a substantial cut from Alfie’s retirement.

           The small apartment was full of good spirits and warm hearts. Everyone seemed to be in a good mood and reflecting on the year. After the meal, Ollie stood up to make a bit of a toast.

           “I just wanted to say another congratulation to Evelyn and Ishmael for their engagement. It’s about time.”

           Ishmael’s face turned red but he smiled and wrapped an arm around his fiancée who looked overjoyed.

           “And Alfie and Louise. Who knew a little boy would be the thing to make him retire.” Ollie joked.

           Louise laughed softly. Teddy was fast asleep in her arms despite the celebration around him. She glanced over and half expected Alfie to be there but she didn’t see him. Frowning, she scanned the party in the parlor to find her husband. Still, there was no sight of him.

           “Alfie?” Ollie realized the man wasn’t in the room either. “Did he step out?”

           Louise sighed. “Shay, will you take Teddy?” She handed the baby to Ollie’s wife before stepping out of the apartment. The winter air was a big shock after being in the warm company of family.

           She shivered and pulled on her coat, wrapping it tightly around herself. The streets of Camden were empty; most were inside celebrating the holidays. The apartments lining the streets were all lit up, casting a glow over the freezing, gray streets.

           There was only one place Alfie would be in Camden. So she began walking down the lane to the bakery, which wasn’t too far from Ollie’s.

~~~~~~~~~~

           The doors were still as heavy as always when Louise pushed her shoulder against them. She was relieved to see her husband standing in the center of the bare bakery. His heavy black coat and wide-brimmed hat making him the largest thing in the room.

           “Alfie?” She spoke quietly so she didn’t startle him.

           He turned and smiled weakly. “What’re doing here, love?”

           “You came up missing and I assumed you came here.” She walked over to him, her heels clicking loudly across the concrete floor and echoing. “Ollie was toasting you.”

           He chuckled and ran a hand over his beard. “That right? Well, glad I wasn’t there. Don’t usually like being called out like that.” He shrugged sheepishly and held out a hand to her.

           She took it and let him pull her close, burying her in his warm layers. His scent had changed after his retirement. No longer did he smell like rum on a daily basis. Instead, he had taken on the scent of Margate, even if he didn’t realize it. Louise inhaled softly and relished in the comforting scent of sandalwood. She closed her eyes and pressed her cheek to his chest. Alfie kissed the scarf covering her hair.

           “What are you thinking?” She asked quietly. It was so strange being inside the bakery again. It didn’t feel like the same place now that it was so empty. It felt like a ghost town without the shouts of the bakers, sounds of heavy boots, the loud clanging of machinery, and the occasional barking from Alfie. The building had lost its soul. But it didn’t make her sad; it only made her nostalgic in a way.

           “First met you here, didn’t I?” He murmured. “Right out there, standing like a lost little flower.”

           She smiled and looked up at him. “With a few missing petals.”

           He nodded and ran a thumb down her cheek. “This is where I fell in love with you.”

           Louise gratefully leaned into his touch. “Mhm…”

           “This is where I killed that fucking terrible excuse for a human.” He grumbled and subtly glanced over to the spot where Daniel had finally fallen after stabbing him.

           Louise hardly even thought about her ex. Barely even considered him her late husband anymore. He was simply a man she had unwittingly fallen for and learned the hard truth of life. She didn’t want to waste time thinking about him when she had such a beautiful family in the present moment.

           “And I thought I lost you for good because of what I’d fucking done.” He sighed quietly. “Just thought it would make things better.”

           “I know.” Louise murmured softly. “You don’t have to explain yourself to me.”

           He shook his head. “Lou, all I’ve ever wanted, right, was for you to be happy.”

           “I am happy.”

           A chill rushed through the drafty building and Alfie tightened his arms around her to keep her warm. “Maybe I don’t know what’s best for you. Everything I’ve done…”

           “Alfie,” She touched a finger to his lips. “What’s really on your mind?” Sometimes it was much better to interrupt his long rambling speeches because they were merely words that covered up his true thoughts.

           He took a deep breath. “I’m scared of leaving you.”

           “You’re not going anywhere, love, you’re right here.” She grazed her knuckles over his beard.

           His throat tightened. “What if I only have a few months left, Louise?” He whispered. “Hardly enough time for Teddy to even remember me fucking face.”

           “I would never let him forget you.” She insisted firmly. “I know we have more time together, I can feel it. You’re not going anywhere anytime soon. And no matter how much time we have left, I’ll be taking care of you, right by your side the entire time.”

           He dipped his head down and touched his cheek to hers. “I’m scared.” His voice was weaker than she’d ever heard it. “Lou, I’m so scared, don’t want to leave you and Ted.”

           “Sh, it’s okay, love.” Louise held him close in the center of the bakery. “Whatever time we have left we’ll make the most of it. I’m just so glad you’re here with me now. You're allowed to be scared, I am too. But in the end, we'll all be okay.”

           Alfie nodded and realized Tommy made the right decision for him. “I’m glad you’re here with me too.” He held his wife. His beautiful wife. The woman who had given him his son. It was one thing to wait for Death to arrive and take him by the hand, it was another to turn his back to the devil and focus on the things he loved in the living world.

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Masterlist

[ugly-crying-over-bucky-barnes]

Burned Part 20

Summary:  Alfie Solomons is in need of a secretary. Tommy Shelby mentions a young woman in need of employment. From there the two step into a dangerous dance together.

Part 20: Good news is met with the bad. Aberama Gold is informed. 

         Louise sat outside the door into the doctor’s office. She waited patiently for him to finish up with speaking to Alfie after the examination. She was undoubtedly anxious as she waited but at least he was seeking help.

           Finally, after about half an hour, Alfie came out. He stopped in front of his wife for a moment. His eyes searched her face as he summoned the courage to speak.

           “I’m sorry.” He muttered before passing by her and leaving the office.

           Confused, Louise looked to the doctor who was standing in the doorway. Her stomach twisted up and she felt sick. There was a large part of her that was in denial. Of course, she’d been worried about the possibility of cancer, but she thought it was just an overreaction. She wanted so desperately to be wrong. But judging by Alfie’s reaction and the look on the doctor’s face, she had been right all along.

           “Why don’t you come in, Mrs. Solomons.” He let her into his office.

           She came and sat across the desk from him.

           The man, Doctor Cecil Stephens, was a kind man with much compassion for his patients. He was well known in the Camden community for being one of the best doctors in the area. He’d been in practice for quite some time but had yet to formally see Alfie Solomons as a patient.

           Of course, he knew the gangster, it was hard not to when his practice was in the Jewish man’s domain. He’d treated many of Alfie’s men, people who came in beaten an inch of their life, ones with bullets lodged in them, or a missing body part such as an eye or finger. With this pattern, Cecil naturally assumed that he would come across Alfie one day. And most likely it would be under violent circumstances.    Instead, the man arrived that morning with his wife by his side. He looked grumpy, but it was merely a ploy to hide his worry. Once behind doors, Alfie explained the issue and showed him the abrasions that were starting to form on his skin. The man was uncharacteristically quiet and sat stiffly through the diagnosis.

           Cecil had seen many reactions in his time as a doctor. It was difficult to predict someone’s response to a terrible fate. If anyone were to react violently, he assumed it would be a man with such a reputation as Alfie Solomons. So it was a surprise to see Alfie merely walk off, leaving his wife.

           “Mrs. Solomons, I’ve examined your husband and spoke to him.” Cecil sat down and looked through the notes he’d taken. “I’m afraid he’s developed a form of skin cancer.”

           Louise sucked in a sharp breath and felt the sting of tears in her eyes. “I…I don’t understand. How?”

           “Well, there is still a lot of research being done on cancer. Unfortunately, it’s in the early stages. However, I’ve seen many men like your husband, veterans who were affected by the gases used in battle.” He explained with the same gentle tone he used for all his patients and their family members.

           “Y-you can do something for him, right?” Her voice was small and she clutched helplessly to her handkerchief.

           “There are therapies that are still being developed but we aren’t sure the long term effects. Radiation has been proposed in recent years, but it’s unknown if it helps.” He was sympathetic to the woman. Alfie had told him they were just wed in the summer and they’d only just found out she was expecting. A cancer diagnosis certainly wasn’t expected or desired.

           “That…that’s simply not good enough.” Louise stammered. Her heart began to race. She would not lose her husband. She refused to bury him so soon. “There must be something you can do.” Her voice rose and her breathing became shallow. The office closed in on her and she panicked. No, it had to be a nightmare. She would wake up and learn it was nothing more than a treatable condition.

           “I’ll try everything I can to try and ease his pain, but it’s unlikely it’ll be treated completely.” Cecil kept a calm demeanor.

           Louise suddenly stood, nearly kicking her chair back from the sharp movement. “You’re a fucking doctor, you’re supposed to be able to help him!” She shouted. “I’m not going to let my husband die!”

           Not half a second after her outburst, Louise felt strong hands leading her out of the doctor’s office. “That’s enough, Lou,” Alfie said firmly.

           “No! He can’t just not have answers!” She fought against her husband’s hold but he was still much stronger than her.

          “No use in yelling, yeah? C’mon.” He muttered a quiet apology to Doctor Stephens before escorting her outside to the car.

           Once he got her in the backseat, Louise burst into hysterical tears. “He’s lying. That’s not what it is. We’ll find another doctor. Someone who’ll know better.” She rambled through her tears.

           Alfie embraced her close. “Sh, sh, s’alright, love.” He wasn’t going to argue with her when she was in such an irrational state. “Try to breathe.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

           Louise spent most of the afternoon in a huff and crying off and on. Alfie stayed home with her, leaving a list for Ollie to finish at the bakery. For most of the time, he sat quietly while Louise kicked up a fuss. She ranted about, pacing through the parlor with Cyril at her heel. The next moment she was curled up in Alfie’s lap sobbing.

           He did his best to comfort her but his mind had gone to a dark place. He thought about getting his affairs in order. Editing his will to include his son or daughter. Louise would need help if he died. He couldn’t leave her with nothing, especially with a child. He figured he could divide up his estate, leaving most of it to Louise, some to Ollie and his family, and the rest to the several Jewish charities he donated to. That would give him more peace at night.

           Yet, money couldn’t heal her wounds if he were to pass. He wanted to berate himself for letting her get so attached. If she didn’t have him, then it wouldn’t hurt as much when he died. He assumed for a long time that when he died, the majority of those who knew him would be happy. Mean ‘ol Alfie Solomons would never again bother them. He didn’t anticipate having a devoted wife and child.

           Now he was anxious for their well being when he was gone. Would his enemies take advantage of her? Could he guarantee her safety if he wasn’t there protecting her?

~~~~~~~~~~~~

           Ollie arrived at the Solomons’ home late that night. He came in with a list of the things he’d completed and any messages he’d gotten that day.

           Louise had exhausted herself and passed out in bed even before dinner. Alfie was glad she could finally get some peace after the difficult day.

           He greeted his assistant at the door.

           “How’s Louise?” Ollie asked. “Did she go to the doctor yet?”

           Alfie grunted and nodded as he flipped through the telegrams. He didn’t want to tell anyone about his cancer. The last thing he needed was for his enemies to think he was weak and easy to overthrow. “She’s asleep.”

           “Well, Shayna offered a few things for the baby.” The young man said. “If you’d like, I can bring them soon.”

           Alfie’s heart wrenched. “Yeah, mate, thanks.” He mumbled.

           It was clear to anyone, especially Ollie who had spent so many years as his right-hand man, that something was seriously wrong. “Sir, are you alright?”

           The gangster stared blankly at the words in his hand. He wasn’t really registering the typed words. All he could read was Shelby Company Ltd. But his mind was too overwhelmed to really understand the meaning of the words. “Ollie…” He glanced up from the telegram. “If anything were to happen to me, would you make sure Lou is kept safe?”

           His assistant furrowed his brow. “Sir?”

           “Just hypothetically.”

           “Well, ‘course.” Ollie shrugged. “She’s like family now.”  

           “Yeah…”

           The two men stood by the front door in silence. The only sound came from the grandfather clock in the hall and Evelyn preparing a light dinner for Alfie.

           “Sir, are you expecting something to happen?” Ollie asked cautiously.

           Alfie frowned. “’Course not.” He retorted. “But it ain’t like I’m a fucking saint, am I, Ollie?”

           It only made the man further confused. His boss never worried about his occupation killing him. He was confident enough to assume he’d always get away or was brave enough to accept death. Ollie figured perhaps his mindset had been altered by the news of the pregnancy.

           Alfie exhaled sharply and shook the fog out of his head. He was still alive. Wasn’t dead yet. He still needed to work. “What the fuck does Tommy want now?” He demanded.

           “Asking about Goliath. He said he heard he was a boxer.” Ollie explained the telegram in his boss’s hand. “Says he wants to set up a match.”

           “Really? While he’s got Changretta on his tail? Fucking crazy gypsy.” He grumbled. “Wants to make a spectacle of it all, well, fine. Give me nephew a ring tomorrow morning then Tommy. We’ll brave the beast and go to Small Heath.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

           Goliath had arrived early the next morning. Alfie filled him in by the door and they were about ready to leave for Small Heath.

           “Alfie?” Louise had panicked when she woke up to an empty bed. She went to the top of the stairs, clutching her dressing gown shut.

           Goliath had never seen such a shift in his uncle’s gruff demeanor before. He’d seen Alfie interact with Louise during holidays. That’s where the two had met for the first time. But there was something about the two being in their own home in the early morning that caused a change. It was a brief glimpse into the intimate relationship they upheld when no one else was around.

           “Yeah, love.” Alfie traveled halfway up the stairs to meet her. “You alright?” He murmured.

           She nodded. “Where are you going?” Her voice was hoarse from crying the day before and her eyes were still red.

           “Birmingham, have to see Tommy.” He explained with full clarity. After the cancer diagnosis, he felt like he owed her at least some honesty.

           “Can I come?” She chewed on her lower lip and touched his arm.

           Alfie weighed the risks. No doubt Luca Changretta was watching Tommy’s every move. He didn’t want the Italian to know about Louise, but he’d be a fool to think the man didn’t already know. Alfie also knew it would be a suicide mission if Luca tried to make an attack in Tommy’s own backyard. If anything, she might be safer there with both his men and the Blinders surrounding them.

           “Alright, love.” He nodded. “Go get dressed, take your time.” He descended the stairs again when Louise returned to the bedroom.

           Goliath gave Ishmael a side-glance. The young man just shrugged and nodded. He’d seen the effect Louise had on his boss since day one. The adoration of a woman was a powerful thing, indeed.

           Speaking of a woman's affection, Evelyn came out of the kitchen. She smiled and fixed Ishmael’s collar. “You be careful.” She warned. “No fighting.”

           The man sported a goofy smile. “Me? Don’t know what you’re on about Lyn.” He replied.

           She raised an eyebrow and shook her head. “Cheeky.” She gave him a smirk and left the men by the door.        

           Ishmael cleared his throat and had a hard time concealing how happy he looked. Goliath looked utterly perplexed. Was there something in the water?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

           Louise was quiet during the car ride to Birmingham. It was like she was trying to ignore the day before. Maybe if she didn’t bring it up, it wouldn’t be true and it would just fade away.

           Alfie could sense all the types of denial his wife was experiencing. And it pained him to know he couldn’t ease her burden. All he could do was hold her hand.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

           Small Heath was just as gray and gloomy as Louise remembered. Alfie looked displeased as he got out of the car.

           “Come to Small Heath, you’ll go to hell for fucking breathing.” He muttered as he helped his wife out of the car.

           “It’s quiet.” She noted. In fact, it was completely deserted, not a soul walking around. It left a strange feeling in the air and she felt like they were being watched.

           “Stretch your legs, treacle,” Alfie said to his nephew. “Fuck me, looks like he’s grown. He’s like a mushroom, innit he, grows in the dark.”

           Louise smiled and lingered near Alfie. She couldn’t shake the strange feeling that the empty street gave off.

           “Where is everyone?” Alfie checked his pocket watch. “Ishmael, please, will you hit the call to prayer?”

           “Did you tell Tommy a time?” Louise asked but was interrupted by the car horn.

           “Mhm, loosely.” He glanced over his shoulder. “Well, hit it!” He ordered his driver again. The car horn echoed through the street a little longer. Alfie rolled his eyes. “Yes, thank you.” He pushed past Ishmael and laid on the horn.

           Louise sighed and stood by the hood of the car, listening to the unrelenting noise. A moment later, Tommy came out of one of the homes on the street. He nodded at Louise and she gave him a silent apology for the antics so early in the morning.

           Alfie didn’t quit until Tommy was stood right in front of him. “Morning Alfie.” The Blinder greeted.

           “Yeah, it is, so how come everybody’s in fucking bed?”

           “This must be Goliath.” Tommy acknowledged the young man taking a piss on the sidewalk. “Let me introduce you to David.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

           “I hear you’re probably more in need of the old rum at the moment, rather than gin, mate.” Alfie led Louise by the arm as they were brought down into the cellar that had been converted into a distillery. There was a fierce chill in the air and Alfie slipped off his scarf to wrap it around his wife. He stopped when he heard a flutter of wings and warbling coming from above them. “Oh dear, you’ve got fucking starlings, mate. That shit will rot your pipework.” Alfie reached into his coat to draw his gun. “These bastards only understand one language.”

           “Alfie!” Louise grabbed his wrist to stop him from loading the gun. She knew he was armed but only because Tommy probably expected him to be. Even she had brought her gun. It wasn’t a time to walk around unarmed.

           “S’alright Alfie, I’m getting a kestrel,” Tommy explained.

           “I hear that you’ve got Italians, mate, you’ve got a kestrel for them?” Alfie inquired deadpan.

           The two men continued talking as Louise lingered around the small distillery. She glanced up to the ceiling and saw the starlings that Alfie had spotted. One of them stared back at her, cocking its head. She followed it as the bird hopped across a pipe towards a small nook in the corner. A bundle of debris had been constructed into a nest and when the mother approached, four little heads popped out. They chirped, their mouths open wide to receive food. The mother perched at the nest, checking over her chicks.

           Louise’s gut wrenched. What would happen if Tommy got a kestrel? Would the bird of prey eat the mother and the babies, or would it just rid of the mother leaving the chicks to starve to death? Where was the father? Would he arrive just to find his family all gone? Could animals feel the same heartbreak that they did?

           “And you just cannot wash it out, right, ‘cause it come out your mother’s tits.”

           Louise glanced over, completely baffled by the snippet she’d heard of their conversation. She left the birds and walked over to the two men.

           “No, the Americans’ll want it sweeter.” Alfie set down a glass of gin.

           “Do you drink, Louise?” Tommy offered a glass to her.

           “No thank you, I’ve been feeling under the weather.” She explained knowing the alcohol would only make her feel worse.

           “I heard a copper got shot,” Alfie spoke, unafraid to talk about such issues in front of Louise. He knew she’d find out eventually. “Who shot him?”

           “My kestrel.” Tommy offered a seat to Louise by the table.

           “How many are here?”

           “Eleven.”

           Louise shot her husband a look of uneasiness. Eleven men were more than enough. And they had yet to visit them in Camden. As far as she was concerned, it was only a matter of time until that day.

           “Enough to drop a man who wrapped his balls in an OBE till they fell off,” Alfie said with a smug look.

           Louise just shook her head, knowing it wasn’t worth the effort to try and get him to be a bit politer.

           “Well, the real question is, Alfie, which side are you playing for, aye?” Tommy was almost glad Louise was there with them. He had a feeling her husband wouldn’t lie about loyalty right in front of her.

           “Fucking hell.” Alfie chuckled darkly, the brim of his hat casting a shadow over his eyes. “What kind of world is it to bring up children when your own mate can ask you that question?”

           Louise glanced down at her hands on her lap. Indeed, what kind of world was it?

           “But the truth is, Tommy, you’ll be fucking dead soon.”

           “Alfie.” She gave him a sharp look. “Don’t say that.”

           “S’alright, Louise,” Tommy assured her. “We’ve all got our opinions, don’t we Alfie?”

           “Tommy, there are men approaching.” Finn came down into the cellar.

           “Yeah, let them pass.” His brother waved them in. “Right,” he turned back to Alfie. “You tell Darby Sabini, from me, that if the Italians win, they’re not planning on leaving. After me, it’ll be him, then you, then the Titanic. They’re coming and they’re here to stay.”

           Alfie’s eyes were cold on his counterpart. His jaw clenched and Louise could see his thoughts running rampant. But he couldn’t get another word in before another group of men came downstairs.

           “Mr. Shelby, we’ve come to talk about the fight.”

           Alfie raised an eyebrow and pointed his cane at the man. “Your kestrel? Tommy, when a pikey walks in with hair like that, you have to ask yourself, have I made a mistake?”

           “Who the fuck are you?”

           “Who the fuck am I?”

           “Who the fuck is this?”

           Louise pinched the bridge of her nose. “Oh dear.” She whispered. Tommy, however, looked amused at the ensuing battle.

           “I, my friend, am the uncle, protector, and promoter of that fucking thing right there.” He jabbed his cane towards his nephew who was lurking in the background like a misplaced tree. “In whose shadow nothing good nor godly will ever grow. That there, right, is the Southern County’s welterweight champion.”

           “Alfie…” His wife tried to step in but he was already too far gone to stop.

           “He is of mixed religion, therefore he is godless. He was adopted by Satan himself before he was returned out of fear of his awkwardness.”

           “Alfie.”

           “He is impossible to marry off, due to his lethal dimensions. His mother. Terrified, she’s fucking abandoned him. And there he is, stood before you like the first of some brand new fucking species!”

           “Alfie, that’s quite enough.” Louise implored him again to stop. “They get it.”

           “And that, mate, is me wife. She’s the exact fucking opposite, ain’t she? Fucking angel. The world ain’t never seen such a gorgeous creature and the fuck if I know why God let me in her presence. Yet here I am, accompanied by a fucking demon and an angel and you’ve got the absolute fucking nerve to ask me who the fuck I am?”

           Louise couldn’t help but smile a little bit. Endearing yet chaotic.

           “So, will you offer your son?” Alfie inquired, ending his little rant.

           Aberama glanced over at his son with a sly nod. Bonnie smiled and stood up straight. “Name the day, Mr. Shelby.”

           Louise looked back and forth between the size differences of the two young men. She stood and felt a wave of nausea. Her face paled and she looked up at the ceiling when she heard the starlings grow a little louder.

           Big fucks small.

           Blood pounded in her ears and the scent of gin began to make her dizzy.

           “Whoa, whoa!” She heard Alfie exclaim as she stumbled forward, the world going black.

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